Half Day Tour To Memphis Sakkara And Dahshur Pyramids

Exploring Egypt beyond Giza: A closer look at the Half Day Tour to Memphis, Saqqara, and Dahshur Pyramids

If you’re visiting Cairo, chances are the Giza Pyramids are on your must-see list — and rightly so. But this tour offers the chance to step off the beaten path and explore some of Egypt’s lesser-visited but equally captivating sites. We’ve reviewed this half-day adventure to Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis, and there’s plenty to love — from expert guides to some truly awe-inspiring pyramids with fewer crowds.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour relies on English-speaking guides who, based on reviews, sometimes lean on notes or have language limitations, which could affect the storytelling. Still, for those eager to see authentic sites, learn from passionate Egyptologists, and skip the touristy hustle, this experience is a smart choice. It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a more intimate, less commercial take on Egypt’s ancient wonders.

What We Love About This Tour

• Expert guidance: Many reviewers sing praises about the guides’ knowledge and passion, making the experience both educational and engaging.
• Fewer crowds: Visiting Dahshur and Saqqara means avoiding the crowds at Giza, allowing for better photos and a more personal feel.
• Authentic sites: Seeing unique pyramids like the Bent Pyramid and exploring Memphis’s ancient relics provide a richer understanding of Egypt’s history.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus group discounts, make the day smoother and more budget-friendly.

One Consideration: Some reviewers mention that the guides’ English skills vary, and a few found their knowledge uneven. The pickup process isn’t always perfectly organized, so patience is necessary.

This tour is best for history buffs, curious travelers, and those who prefer a smaller, more manageable group rather than large, crowded excursions. It also appeals to visitors who want to experience Egypt’s ancient sites without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Fewer crowds mean more intimate visits to iconic pyramids and ancient sites.
• Knowledgeable guides can enhance understanding, though language skills vary.
• Comfortable transportation makes exploring multiple sites manageable within half a day.
• Cost-effective price offers great value for entry to multiple historic locations.
• Flexible schedule options allow travelers to choose departure times.
• Authentic experience with personal stops for shopping and souvenirs enriches the visit.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Saqqara: The Birthplace of the Pyramid Evolution

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel, with a guide and driver ready to whisk you away to Saqqara, just 27 km southwest of Cairo. Although close, this site feels worlds apart from the tourist-packed Giza. The highlight here is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, often considered Egypt’s first true pyramid and a milestone in architectural history.

As one reviewer noted, entering the pyramid and walking through its ancient chambers and carvings felt special, especially with a guide who conveys the significance of each feature. Visiting Saqqara isn’t just about snapping photos — it’s about understanding the evolution from simple mastabas to the grand pyramids we know today.

Memphis: The Ancient Capital

Next, the tour brings you to Memphis, the capital of the Old Kingdom. This site is less crowded but offers stunning sights like the colossal statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s detailed explanations, noting that the statue’s size and craftsmanship took their breath away. Memphis is the perfect spot to get a sense of Egypt’s grandeur as an empire, with open-air relics that make for memorable photos.

Dahshur: The Pyramids Less Visited

The Dahshur necropolis is perhaps the tour’s standout. Known for the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, this area is a treasure trove of architectural innovation. The Bent Pyramid, with its unusual angle, and the Red Pyramid, the third-largest pyramid in Egypt, are among the oldest and best-preserved. Many visitors have remarked the experience of exploring these pyramids feels more personal and less commercialized, thanks to fewer travelers.

Travelers get the chance to peek inside some of these structures, which is often impossible at Giza. As one reviewer said, “Getting inside the Dahshur pyramids was fascinating — especially knowing it’s still a relatively quieter site.” The tour typically lasts about an hour and a half here.

Saqqara’s Additional Wonders

The tour doesn’t stop at just the pyramids. You’ll visit the Pyramid of Teti and the Pyramid of Unas, both in Saqqara, which exemplify Old Kingdom architecture and ingenuity. The Pyramid of Unas is especially notable for its decorated chambers, and many find it a striking piece of Egypt’s historical puzzle.

Adding to the experience, the Mastaba of Ti showcases ancient tomb art depicting everyday life, giving a human touch to Egypt’s distant past. As one guest shared, “Walking through these tombs felt like stepping into a storybook — full of scenes of daily activities carved into stone.”

Shopping, Extras, and Local Flavors

This tour includes optional stops at local shops where you can see traditional papyrus making, pottery, and carpets — all guaranteed to support local artisans. Many reviewers appreciated these stops, especially when they could pick up high-quality souvenirs like perfumes, handmade rugs, or Egyptian cotton.

For lunch, there’s an option to upgrade to a local restaurant, offering classic Egyptian dishes like koshari, which adds a delicious and authentic touch to the day. Some found the timing of lunch a bit later in the tour, but most enjoyed the outdoor setting and fresh flavors.

Transport, Guides, and Timing

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics seamless — a real plus after a long day of sightseeing. The vehicle is usually comfortable, and the driver is praised for navigating Cairo’s chaotic streets with skill and calmness.

Guides are described as passionate and knowledgeable, though a few reviews point out language barriers. Some guides tend to read from notes or struggle with English, which might limit some storytelling. That said, their enthusiasm and familiarity with the sites often compensate for this, especially when they take the time to answer questions and share insights.

The tour lasts about 5 hours, with roughly 20-minute stops at each site, allowing you to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The flexible departure times help tailor the experience to your schedule.

Unique Experiences and Extras

Beyond the core sites, the tour offers a chance to explore the flower cotton store, paradise perfumes palace, and key of life papyrus shop. These visits are more than just shopping; they’re opportunities to see traditional crafts and support local artisans. Many guests appreciate these authentic stops, which add a cultural flavor to the day.

Cost and Value

At $50 per person, this tour provides excellent value. It covers entry fees, transportation, and a guide, offering a comprehensive look at Egypt’s early pyramids without the hefty crowds at Giza. For anyone interested in history, architecture, and authentic sites, it’s a budget-friendly way to expand your Egypt experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that offers expert-guided insights, fewer travelers, and access to lesser-known pyramids, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience and are comfortable with some language barriers, as guides are often passionate but may not be fluent English speakers.

The tour’s flexibility and optional shopping stops add a layer of customization, making it suitable for curious explorers and history enthusiasts alike. While some reviews suggest the guides’ knowledge varies, most agree that the experience overall is rewarding and well-organized.

However, if you’re after a deep, detailed narration, or prefer highly fluent guides, you might find this tour slightly lacking. Also, those who dislike minor organizational hiccups, like pickup delays or guide notes, should be aware.

In short, this half-day tour offers a fantastic peek into Egypt’s early pyramid-building history, with enough comfort and value to justify its price. It’s a strong choice for anyone wanting a more authentic, less crowded experience that complements the iconic Giza Pyramids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day smooth and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours from start to finish, including travel time and site visits.

Are entry fees included?
Yes, the cost covers entry fees for the sites visited, such as Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, there are options to select the departure time that best fits your schedule.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is optional and can be added for an extra fee, offering a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine.

Are guides fluent in English?
Guides are knowledgeable, but some reviews mention that English language skills can be inconsistent.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Saqqara’s Step Pyramid, Memphis’s relics, Dahshur’s Bent and Red Pyramids, and the tombs of Teti and Unas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, but children should be prepared for walking and some narrow pyramid tunnels.

This tour offers a memorable way to see Egypt’s early pyramids and ancient sites without the crowds, at a price that makes it accessible for many travelers. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Egypt’s past, it’s a day packed with authentic sights and stories.